Evaluation of the antifertility effect of magainin-A in rabbits: in vitro and in vivo studies

Objective: To evaluate the safety and contraceptive potential of magainin-A in rabbits. Design: Controlled laboratory study. Setting: Department of Immunology, Institute for Research in Reproduction, Mumbai, Parel, India. Animal(s): Forty-eight female New Zealand white rabbits. Intervention(s): The effect of magainin-A on sperm motility (in vitro and in vivo studies) and on vaginal epithelium (histologic study) was assessed along with serum and liver biochemical profiles. Main Outcome Measure(s): Suitability of magainin-A for contraceptive use. Result(s): Magainin-A arrested sperm motility, and 1 mg of magainin-A administered intravaginally blocked conception. No histopathologic abnormalities in the vaginal tissue or any changes in serum biochemical profiles were observed. Conclusion(s): Magainin-A may be used as an effective and safe intravaginal contraceptive compound that also has antibacterial properties. (Fertil Steril(R) 2000;73:353-8. (C)2000 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.).